City Cast Madison invited all qualified Madison Common Council candidates to complete a short questionnaire to help voters learn more about the people running to represent them in city government. All candidates were sent the same questions, and as you'll see, some questions are more policy-oriented and some are a little more fun!
The unedited responses for District 16 candidate Kim Richman are below.
Read the rest of the questionnaire responses here.
1. What is the single most pressing issue facing Madison?
Common Council trust, fiscal responsibility, transparency, & accountability. We must learn to live within our means and say no to “wants”. Skyrocketing property taxes, as well as other fees and taxes, are forcing some Madisonians to make difficult financial decisions. After the city threatened residents with deep cuts to services, Madison voters approved a $22 million referendum to support the city’s budget, thus raising property taxes again. Just weeks later, the city projected a $20 million surplus. The referendum was NOT needed at this time, and more ways to receive revenue weren’t explored. Voters deserve more fiscal transparency and an Alder who will put their priorities on top in the next budget.
2. What's the most important issue facing your district and how will you go about addressing it?
The #1 issue I hear from residents while talking with them is the continuing, sharp tax increases and the adding of new fees, which end up hidden in the water utility bill. I’m told (and I’ve been advocating) that the city should concentrate on things that we need, before considering things that we want. I will constantly check with constituents on their wants, and put them into motion. Another concern has been reckless driving. The Madison Police Department doesn’t have the resources for adequate traffic enforcement. With only one shift of 5 officers (at regular strength) dedicated to traffic enforcement, I will push for a 2nd shift of 5 officers to increase safety on the streets.
3. What sets you apart from your competitor or, if running uncontested, what would you like voters to know about you?
I have deep East Side roots. I was born and raised in the nearby Eastmorland Neighborhood and have owned my current home in the Elvehjem Neighborhood for 42 years. I’m invested in this district, I’m on our neighborhood association board of directors as well as 2 other boards, and I’m an involved community advocate and familiar with the neighborhoods. I’ve hosted and attended numerous community meetings across the city to learn the concerns and interests of Madison residents. I give back to the community by volunteering at various events, most of which are assembling dinners for those in need, serving hot meals for the less fortunate, and fundraising for various events.
4. Did you support the $22 million property tax referendum? Why or why not?
I did not support the referendum primarily because of the burden it will put on fixed and low-income families, and especially the way the city threatened severe cuts to basic services. Only a few weeks after voters passed the $22 million referendum, the city suddenly forecasted an approximate $20 million surplus that grew the rainy-day fund to over $104 million. Constituents now feel misled. We aren’t getting our equitable distribution of shared revenue from the state. The city's effort to lobby for more revenue is lacking. I’ve been a vocal advocate regarding sending lobbyists to the state to receive our fair share. Now, on February 6, news came out that Madison has proposed to hire a lobbying firm.
5. What should Madison look for in its next police chief?
The PFC should look for a Chief who, of course, will uphold the laws and ordinances. Someone who will build and expand on partnerships, both with residents and neighboring communities. Obviously, Madison residents should be taken care of. The new Chief should support and retain the talent we have at MPD and continue to recruit special talent for MPD. Community policing must be continued and expanded.
6. What's something the city currently isn't doing, but could do to help ease our housing crisis?
I would like to see the city offer incentive programs for first-time AND first-generation home buyers, as well as low-income buyers. It would be a low annual interest rate loan for a percentage of the down payment. This would get first-time, first-generation, and low-income home buyers into the market. Some folks just do not want to rent an apartment or condo. Let’s get builders to build smaller starter homes on smaller lots for those who want a house and yard.
7. What's something you wish more residents knew about Common Council/city government?
Madison residents should know that if they're interested in participating in person, or watching Common Council meetings, the agenda comes out the Friday before a Tuesday meeting. Residents then have the opportunity to register in support or opposition of an agenda item, and to speak virtually or in person for 3 minutes to have their voices heard. Make YOURS heard! This link will inform you of all city government meetings. https://www.cityofmadison.com/city-hall/committees/meeting-schedule/register
8. What's one thing you wish you could change about Madison?
I’d like the city to get more serious about affordable housing. It’s been talked about for many years. Density is one way to make housing more affordable, but even with all of the housing units getting built, and incentives given to developers (tax credits and subsidies), it’s not getting any more affordable. We need smaller single-family homes and lots, and more multi-family units like duplexes for those who don’t want to live in an apartment. Residents and stakeholders should always be engaged with to ensure that the affordable housing project meets the needs of the neighborhood and community.
9. What’s your favorite meal in Madison?
I miss Ella's Deli! As a Jew, my all-time favorite meal is a large Corned Beef on Rye with mustard, a huge Kosher pickle, and a bowl of Matzoh ball soup. The problem is, I can’t find an authentic New York Style Kosher deli in Madison. So, my favorite meal in Madison is Italian fare; Chicken Parmesan buried in pasta. My father’s side of the family is from the Greenbush (The Bush) neighborhood, so if we didn’t have a Jewish dish, it was probably Italian.
10. Anything else you'd like to add?
I’m proud to have deep East Side roots. I was born and raised in Eastmorland. I've now lived in the Elvehjem neighborhood in the16th district for over 42 years. I’ll represent constituents with a strong, common sense, grassroots approach. I'm a listener. I’ll bring transparency and accountability to the Common Council, especially financial practices. I’ll promote open communication with residents, more community engagement, and advocate for community safety. The job as an Alder is non-partisan public service, not politics. I’ll be an open-minded, unbiased Alder. Residents want to talk about concerns that are unique to their neighborhood. I will provide that attention and be a voice for constituents.
